HUION Inspiroy 2 Large Drawing Tablet review for artists and designers 2023

Description

Ergonomic Design and Build Quality

I’ve been using the HUION Inspiroy 2 Large Drawing Tablet for various creative projects, and right off the bat, the sleek design caught my attention. The 10×6-inch active area provides plenty of space for detailed sketching and drawing, while the overall compact build ensures it doesn’t dominate my desk. The tablet feels lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to carry around without fear of damage.

One standout feature is the battery-free stylus (PW110). Its slimmer body and soft silicone grip are a game-changer when it comes to comfort. I’ve spent hours working on intricate designs, and my hand didn’t feel fatigued, thanks to this well-thought-out ergonomic design. The stylus also has accessible side buttons, which I programmed for frequent commands like undo and redo—saving me tons of time.

Advanced PenTech 3.0: Precision at Its Best

The PenTech 3.0 technology on this tablet genuinely delivers an impressive experience. As someone who’s worked with older models, I noticed no lag or wobble in the strokes. It mimics the feel of a real pen on paper with remarkable precision. Every line, whether bold or faint, responds exactly as intended.

I tested this with various brushes in Photoshop and Krita, and the pressure sensitivity was nothing short of stellar. The 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, combined with tilt recognition, make shading and detailed linework effortless. It truly feels like the stylus flows as an extension of my hand.

Customization for Efficiency

One of the key benefits of this product is its programmable scroll wheel and 3-set shortcut keys, which can be customized for different applications. For instance, I set the scroll wheel to zoom in and out in Photoshop, and it worked like a charm. The 8 shortcut buttons can also be tailored to specific needs.

Switching settings for different software is simple, and the transition feels seamless. Whether I’m designing on Illustrator or doing quick sketches in CorelDRAW, the shortcuts adapt to my workflow, making the creative process significantly smoother.

Highlights:

• Scroll wheel simplifies navigation and zoom adjustments.
• Customizable keys enhance productivity across various apps.
• Quick adaptability for multiple software tools.

Mobile-Friendly Functionality

What surprised me most about the HUION Inspiroy 2 is its compatibility with Android devices (OS 6.0 or later). I connected it to my Android tablet, and drawing on the go became a breeze. Seeing my sketches come to life on a mobile screen was a refreshing experience, especially since you don’t need additional drivers for this feature.

This functionality makes it ideal for artists who like flexibility. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or simply prefer working away from a desk, the mobile-friendly aspect is a huge plus.

Multi-OS Compatibility

The Inspiroy 2 supports a wide range of operating systems, including Mac (MacOS 10.12 or later), Windows (7 or later), and Linux (Ubuntu). As someone who switches between Windows and Mac for different projects, I appreciated how easy it was to set up the tablet on both systems.

There’s no noticeable difference in performance across platforms, which speaks volumes about its reliability. For Linux users, the added support is a welcome bonus, considering not all tablets cater to this OS.

Merits:

• Excellent pressure sensitivity for precise strokes.
• Ergonomic stylus design prevents fatigue during long sessions.
• Multiple OS support ensures compatibility for diverse users.

Areas for Improvement

While the HUION Inspiroy 2 ticks a lot of boxes, there are a few hurdles worth mentioning.

• The scroll wheel, though convenient, can feel a bit stiff during extended use.
• The stylus nibs wear down faster than expected with heavy use. It’s not a deal-breaker, but keeping extra nibs handy is a good idea.
• Lack of a wireless option might be a limitation for those who prefer cord-free setups.

These are minor issues, and they don’t overshadow the overall performance, but they’re worth considering if you’re particular about these details.

Product Rivals

Compared to other tablets like the Wacom Intuos Pro and XP-Pen Deco Pro, the HUION Inspiroy 2 holds its ground with its affordable quality and customizability. The Wacom models, while excellent, often come with a steeper price tag, making them less accessible for beginners or casual artists.

XP-Pen offers similar features at a comparable price point, but I found the advanced PenTech 3.0 on the Inspiroy 2 more responsive and precise. However, XP-Pen’s inclusion of wireless functionality might appeal to users who prioritize mobility.

Ultimately, the Inspiroy 2 excels in its ergonomics, mobile compatibility, and customization options, making it a strong contender in this price range.

Bang for the Buck

When it comes to value for money, the HUION Inspiroy 2 delivers a robust set of features without breaking the bank. Its high-pressure sensitivity, customizable shortcuts, and cross-platform compatibility make it a worthwhile investment for both seasoned professionals and budding digital artists.

While there are minor flaws, the overall package offers more than enough to justify its cost. If you’re looking for a reliable, efficient, and comfortable drawing tablet, this one is definitely worth considering.

Additional information